Not just a pretty face, Lyon is bursting with museums, galleries and other cultural highlight to satiate the most inquisitive of minds.

Opera house

One of the world's first freestanding opera houses, the original Opera de Lyon opened its doors in 1756. It was replaced as Lyon's cultural heart by the Lyon theatre in 1831 and it was not until 1985 that it was reimagined as the building we known today. Worth a visit for the stunning contemporary redesign as much as its performances, the Opera is once again on the top of Lyon's must see list.

Fourviere

Seen by many as the centrepiece of the city, the magnificent basillica Notre Dame de Fourviere watches over the city from the hill named in its honour. You can admire the stunning Byzantine and Romanesque inspired designs of the church itself before marvelling over some of the best views of Lyon.

Rhone walks / Saone walks

Lyon is defined by its rivers, both of which afford some magnificent walking trails. From a tour through the burgeoning district of Confluence to a modern trail past the recently reinvigorated banks of the Rhône, spending some time with the twin waterways of Lyon is always time well spent

Confluence Museum

At the centre of Interaction Week 18 is the stunning Musée des Confluence. Built in 2014 and modelled after the city of Lyon itself, the building holds 4 permanent and 5 temporary exhibitions. A must see.

Musée des Tissus et des Arts décoratifs

With a history dating back to the 19th century, the Musée des Tissus and Musée des Art Décoratifs showcase Lyon's storied history of silk making. Hosting many exhibtions as well as events and sympsiums, this delightful museum comes highly recommended.

Gallo-Roman Museum

Lyon's began as the Roman trade hub Lugdunum, and a surprising amount of that ancient city remains. On top of Fourviere Hill lies an almost fully intact Roman ampitheatre and the contemporary Musée Roman, housing the best finds from the archeaological excavations.

Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral

Another in Lyon's long list of venerable churches is Cathédrale St Jean. Located in the quartier of the same name, this giant place of worship outdates the more recognisable Fourviere by almost 700 years. It also houses a work of art unique in the city: a fully functional astronomical clock created in 1598.

Tête d'Or Park

Lyon's largest park, La Tête D'or is home to three complementary rose gardens, the city botanic gardens and Lyon Zoo. Whether you're wiling away the afternoon wandering through the greenery or admiring the lemurs at play, this is the perfect spot to unwind.